Title: Conquering Discouragement in Difficult Times.

Scripture: Psalm 42:11, "Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will praise him, my Savior and God."

I. Introduction We all experience discouragement, an unwelcome guest that arrives unannounced during the trials and tribulations of life. In these challenging moments, it's easy to question God's purpose, lose heart, or become engulfed in despair. The question is not if we will face discouragement but when and how we will respond when it comes knocking.

II. The Reality of Discouragement (1 Kings 19:3-5) Our first illustration comes from the life of Elijah. After his victorious encounter with the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, Elijah finds himself running for his life from Queen Jezebel. He falls into despair, so much so that he wishes for his death. He had forgotten the victory God had given him and saw only the threats before him. He was tired, weary, and discouraged.

III. The Response to Discouragement (Psalm 42:11) Our important scripture, Psalm 42:11, shows us how to respond. First, the psalmist asks himself why he is downcast and reminds himself to put hope in God. But instead, he focused on the Savior who could uplift him from his despair. In the words of Charles Spurgeon, "Our sorrows are all, like ourselves, mortal. There are no immortal sorrows for immortal souls. They come but blessed be God, they also go."

IV. The Remedies for Discouragement

Prayer (Philippians 4:6-7): In our moments of discouragement, we must bring our concerns, fears, and despair to God in prayer. Our Father invites us to cast all our anxieties on Him because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7).

1. Praise (Psalm 28:7): The psalmist David, when he was discouraged, would often write songs of praise to God. We, too, can praise God, for He is our strength and shield.

2. Perspective (Romans 8:28): We must remember that God works all things for the good of those who love Him. This perspective helps us see past the temporary trials and the eternal reward.

3. Presence (Matthew 28:20): Christ promised His disciples, "I am with you always, to the very end of the age." When we are discouraged, we can take comfort in the presence of God. We are not alone.

V. Conclusion

Life is full of trials and tribulations that can lead to discouragement. Yet, we serve a more significant God than all our problems. As Paul says in Romans 8:31, "If God is for us, who can be against us?"

When we focus on God, pray, praise Him, remember His promises, and seek His presence, we can conquer discouragement, even in the most challenging times.

Remember the words of Christian author C.S. Lewis, "Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny." No matter the depth of your discouragement, keep your hope steadfast in God, for He is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1).

Conquering pessimism is not about denying its existence but acknowledging its presence and surrendering it to God. Let us conquer discouragement by putting our hope and trust in our Savior and God.